100 CUTTINGS AND SLIPS. [JUNE. 



bottom leaves : it is usual also to cut about half 

 an inch from the top leaves; but, as I have 

 shewn that plants receive nourishment from 

 their leaves, the most scientific gardeners con- 

 sider it wrong to do so. 



After this, with a small pointed stick, prick 

 them into the bed, about an inch apart ; water 

 them gently, but well; this settles the earth 

 round the part in the ground, tightly. If this 

 were not done, the air would get to the wound- 

 ed part of the plant, dry up the juices, or sap, 

 and prevent the formation of the new root. 

 Then put on the hand-glass, so close that no 

 air can get in ; let them have strong sun heat, 

 but no air till they begin to grow : water them 

 plentifully, with a fine nose to your watering- 

 pot, and they will strike quickly. 



If you have more room under your hand- 

 glass than you require, you may put in some 



